Amidst statistics that show rising numbers of kids — and we do mean kids — are having unprotected sex, a Swiss company has introduced an itsy-bitsy child-sized condom for penises ages 12-14. And it's called "the Hotshot." Omg, adorable.

We're guessing that the introduction of the 7.4 x 1.7" prophylactic, currently available only in Switzerland, may outrage some, who will doubtless feel it encourages the target audience's sexual activity. But, as one researcher at the University of Besel, who's conducted studies in youthful sexual activity, said, kids this age often "do not understand the consequences of what they are doing...The results of this study suggest that early prevention makes sense." As the Sociological Images blog puts it, "Is it better to encourage abstention, even though we know it is of limited use, or try to reduce harm?" The author also makes the point that the condoms could serve a very useful, if sad function, for those boys forced into sex work at a young age. Then too, will encouraging condom use (very) young result in a lifelong commitment to protection?

My real question about the condom — besides wanting statistics on what percentage of young boys are sexually viable and at the same time not regular condom-sized — is the aforementioned "Hotshot" business. While I get that "extra-small" isn't exactly going to move inventory with the middle-school set, a name that plays into the age-group's penchant for manhood-proving leaves the manufacturers open to exactly the sort of criticism you'd think they'd want to avoid. Or, they've got a much better sense of irony than most of the advertisers we're used to.